6 most intriguing position battles for the Detroit Lions in 2024

2. No. 3 RB

The aforementioned Craig Reynolds may have eventually lost the gig as the Lions' No. 3 running back to Zonovan Knight, if not for Knight being injured in an early season game. More competition was added in the draft, and the Lions clearly view the versatile Sione Vaki as a running back first.

It may come down to the previously mentioned kickoff returner battle for who asserts himself as the Lions' No. 3 running back this year. There's also a real possibility the Lions carry four running backs into the season, with Vaki a lead-pipe lock to make it and Reynolds and Knight left to battle for one roster spot.

1. No. 3 WR

How big a void Josh Reynolds is leaving behind probably depends on who you're talking to. Jameson Williams is being counted on to step into the No. 2 wide receiver role. After that, there are question marks in terms of who will step into certain roles.

But the Lions are apparently good with where their wide receiver room is. General manager Brad Holmes heaped big praise on Donovan Peoples-Jones earlier this month, so he feels like the proverbial front runner to be the No. 3 guy with a full offseason to get acclimated. Second-year man Antoine Green lands as an interesting competitor for the role. Kalif Raymond may get a renewed opportunity to be a factor in the offense. Undrafted rookie Isaiah Williams could enter the picture as a deep dark horse.

The success of the Lions' offense this year won't rest on whether someone is a consistently big producer in the No. 3 wide receiver role. But whoever it is can absolutely be an important piece of the equation, in certain situations and circumstances if nothing else (contested catches, red zone, etc.). It'd be nice to see someone clearly take the reigns, and prove the faith Holmes and assistant GM Ray Agnew have shown in the depth at the position to be well-warranted.